Tantalum

Tantalum (Ta) is a refractory metal. Tantalum is quite soft compared to tungsten or even molybdenum. The density and melting point of tantalum lies between that of tungsten and molybdenum.

Tantalum is often used in capacitors or other electronic devices and is often also used to alloy other metals. Its high corrosion resistance is useful in chemical reaction pipes and vessels such as vacuum furnaces and nuclear reactors, allowing corrosion-resistant properties at high temperatures while minimizing product contamination. Its high thermal conductivity is useful in equipment such as heat exchangers and distillation equipment.